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Performing Arts

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The BTEC Acting Diploma (540GLH = equivalent to one and a half A levels) is a two-year intensive programme structured around the development of personal acting skills and preparing to work in the performing arts industry.This course is 100% coursework, internally assessed over four units.This is a highly recommended course for those focused on progression to drama training and careers in the performing arts. You will take part in practical workshops throughout the course, to develop your skills and techniques as an actor and work as part of a collaborative performance company. The course is based on a drama school training model and prepares you for working with discipline and imagination on scripted and devised performance projects. Theatre visits are an integral part of the course and there are opportunities for involvement in Brighton’s vibrant theatre scene with performances in local venues. On the course, you will:

  • Look at planning a career In the Performing Arts Industry (types of employment, roles, self-promotion etc.)
  • Explore performance styles (improvisation, naturalism, physical theatre, epic, storytelling, total theatre & devising) & create performance material for live performances.
  • Create commission-based performance & take part in a major production project in the Brighton Fringe Festival.

I chose Performing Arts to continue my path of acting. I have particularly enjoyed how the balance of workshops and performances have helped me gain more experience with performing live and having more skills and techniques to use to my advantage.

Ellie Richards, ex BACA

Course Essentials

Courses Available
BTEC Level 3 Diploma Performing Arts Practice (Acting) (equivalent to 1.5 A Levels)
Entry Requirements

PLUS
Grade 5 in GCSE Drama or Merit in L2 BTEC (if taken)
OR
A background of successful experience in productions
How The Course is Assessed
The course is assessed through ongoing performance projects supported by coursework reports, which include research, documentation, analysis and evaluation. The course is 100% internally assessed on coursework and performance projects.
Career Pathways
HE courses in Acting, Performing Arts, Drama & Theatre Studies, Physical Theatre and related fields. Previous students have gone on to Royal Central School of Speech & Drama, Chichester University, Guildford School of Acting, and Rose Bruford amongst others. Some go directly into the industry and others to a range of other degrees such as law, history and fine art. Our BTEC course can lead directly into careers in the industry or give access to a host of other jobs which value problem solving skills, ability to work in a team and an active, engaged, approach.
Transferable Skills
Creativity; teamwork; leadership skills; problem solving; independence; communication; project planning; how to work effectively with external clients; funding & performance arts marketing.
Other Information
Due to the qualification pathway of this BTEC course, you cannot take BTEC Performing Arts alongside BTEC Dance. You must choose one or the other.
Enquiries To
Steve Bates: ssb@varndean.ac.uk